In fact, says AAA Northeast, in that 5 - 6 p.m. hour, the number of motor vehicle crashes in Connecticut increases 45 percent while pedestrian-related crashes nearly double after Daylight Saving Time ends.

“Even though we feel we're getting an extra hour of sleep, time changes do affect our internal body clocks," Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokesperson, said in a release.

“So, it's important drivers prepare and make lifestyle adjustments.”

To call attention to National Drowsy Driving Prevention Week this week (Nov. 4 - 11 a.m.), AAA Northeast analyzed 2015 - 2017 crash data from the UConn Crash Data Repository, comparing the number of motor vehicle and pedestrian-related crashes on weekdays in the month before and after Daylight Saving Time ended.

Photo: Seth Wenig/AP

Photo: Seth Wenig/AP

Image
1of/22

Caption

Close

Image 1 of 22

Photo: Seth Wenig/AP

AAA: Crashes increase 45 percent after DST ends

1 / 22

Back to Gallery

“With time changes come greater risks," Mayko added. “Driving in the dark poses many more hazards so drivers need to be especially attentive on the way home from work.”

Drivers also need to realize concentration, attention, and decision-making could be affected by time changes, she said.

The UConn Crash Data Repository lists more than 1,600 drowsy driving-related crashes in Connecticut in 2017, equivalent to one every six hours. Prior research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety also found such crashes are under-reported and are much more frequent than police reports would suggest.

To avoid crashes after the time change goes into effect, AAA Northeast suggests drivers:

Follow at safe driving distances so you have time to react. Decreased visibility affects your depth perception and peripheral vision;

Approach crosswalks and intersections with care. Check for cyclists and pedestrians before turning and anticipate pedestrians crossing mid-block;